In winter your skin just can’t seem to win. Cold air and wind results in less moisture on your face, whilst hot showers and heating means dry and cracked skin. This season is the least ideal for your complexion, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have glowing, healthy skin. There are a few changes you can make to your existing routine depending on your skin type or concerns. We chatted with leading dermatologist Dr. Annika Smith who gave us 10 tips to combat a damaged moisture barrier so you can have radiant glowing skin all year round.
- Incorporate hydrating body washes into your daily shower routine: Apply a moisturising body wash, as part of your regular shower routine. Choosing a body wash with a caring formula will help keep your skin hydrated during the drier months and maintain its moisture barrier throughout the winter season.
- Use a cleanser that won’t strip the oils from your skin: A mild cleanser will effectively cleanse your skin without stripping it of its natural oils, ensuring a gentle and caring experience.
- Protect your skin microbiome: To protect your skin’s microbiome, choose products that are microbiome gentle and free and free from sulphates (SLES) and parabens, safeguarding your skin during the winter.
- Use a humidifier: Indoor heating can dry out the air, leading to dry skin. Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture back into the air and keep your skin hydrated.
- Protect exposed skin: When going outside in cold weather, make sure to cover up exposed areas of skin with warm clothing, scarves, and gloves. This helps to prevent moisture loss and windburn.
- Avoid hot showers and baths: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Opt for lukewarm water instead and limit your shower or bath time to prevent excessive drying.
- Hydrate from within: Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Staying properly hydrated helps to maintain the skin's moisture balance.
- Protect your skin with moisturising layers: In addition to using a moisturising body wash like, create a protective barrier on your skin by layering moisturising products. After showering, apply a rich, emollient moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture. Look for moisturisers that contain ingredients like prolipids and glycerin and shea butter to provide intense hydration and help fortify your skin's resilience against the harsh winter elements.
- Don't forget sunscreen: Even though it's winter, UV rays can still damage your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, especially on exposed areas such as the face, neck, and hands. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can further dehydrate and damage the skin. Opt for a moisturising sunscreen to provide both sun protection and hydration to keep your skin resilient throughout the winter season.
- Remember, consistency is key when it comes to maintaining skin resiliency in winter. By using a body wash and moisturiser daily, you can keep your skin hydrated, nourished, and resilient throughout the season. It’s also important to consult with a dermatologist for personalised advice and treatment options if you have specific skin conditions, as they can provide tailored recommendations and guidance based on your unique needs.
Product recommendations:
Nude by Nature Hydrating Facial Serum
Burt’s Bees Intense Hydration Night Cream
Cetaphil Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion
Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion
Sukin Naturals Moisture Rich Body Crème
